Chamomilla Recutita: Complete Medicinal Profile
Chamomilla recutita, also known as German chamomile, is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family that is native to Europe and Western Asia.
The plant has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and anti-anxiety effects, which make it a popular ingredient in herbal remedies.
The health benefits of Chamomilla recutita include reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and soothing digestive issues, as well as alleviating symptoms of menstrual cramps and insomnia.
Chamomilla recutita can be prepared in various herbal forms, including tea, capsules, and essential oil, which can be used internally or topically to reap its therapeutic benefits.
Study of the Day
According to African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines (AJTCAM), Chamomilla recutita was found to have a higher prevalence and was used by ancestral healers in the Chimborazo province of Ecuador to cure different illnesses.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Chamomilla recutita.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Chamomilla recutita is used to alleviate a wide range of health issues, from soothing digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome and stomach ulcers, to reducing anxiety and stress, and promoting a good night's sleep.
It has also been shown to be effective in treating skin conditions like eczema, acne, and rosacea, as well as wounds and burns.
Additionally, the plant has been used to relieve menstrual cramps and other symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome, and has even been known to help with insomnia, migraines, and even postpartum depression.
By incorporating chamomilla recutita into your daily routine, whether through tea, oil, or supplement, you can experience the numerous benefits it has to offer, from improved overall health to increased sense of well-being.
The health benefits of Chamomilla recutita are listed below.
- Calming and relaxation: Chamomilla recutita is known for its calming and soothing effects, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and a good night's sleep.
- Soothes skin irritations: The plant's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it effective in soothing skin irritations, such as eczema, acne, and minor wounds.
- Digestive relief: Chamomilla recutita has been used to treat digestive issues, including nausea, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome, due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
- Antimicrobial properties: The plant has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help to combat infections and promote wound healing.
- Reduces inflammation: Chamomilla recutita's anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce swelling and inflammation, making it effective in treating conditions such as arthritis and sprains.
- Sedative and anti-anxiety effects: The plant's sedative and anti-anxiety effects can help to calm the mind and body, making it a popular natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.
- Antioxidant properties: Chamomilla recutita contains antioxidants that can help to protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall health and well-being.
Here are the best health benefits of Chamomilla recutita.
Actions
Chamomilla recutita has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and nervine properties, which affect the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and digestive system.
Its sedative and anxiolytic actions impact the nervous system and endocrine system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
The plant's demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties soothe and protect the mucous membranes, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system.
Additionally, its antihistamine and anti-allergic actions influence the immune system, making it a versatile therapeutic agent with a range of systemic effects.
The therapeutic actions of Chamomilla recutita are listed below.
- Antiemetic: Relieves nausea and vomiting
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Antispasmodic: Relaxes muscles and reduces spasms
- Calming: Soothes and calms the mind and body
- Emmenagogue: Stimulates menstrual flow and eases menstrual cramps
- Sedative: Promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety
- Soothing: Cools and calms irritations, wounds, and skin conditions
Constituents
Chamomilla recutita has been found to contain a diverse range of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids such as apigenin and luteolin, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
The plant also contains terpenoids like bisabolol, which possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm irritated tissues.
Chamomilla recutita is rich in phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, which have been shown to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, protecting cells from damage and promoting overall well-being.
Additionally, the plant contains sesquiterpene lactones, such as alantolactone and isoalantolactone, which have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, supporting the plant's therapeutic potential.
The bioactive constituents of Chamomilla recutita are listed below.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Chamazulene: A volatile oil responsible for the blue color of the plant and has anti-inflammatory properties
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Apigenin-7-o-glucoside: A flavonoid glycoside with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Luteolin-7-o-glucoside: A flavonoid glycoside with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Chamomilla recutita are the flowers, leaves, and roots.
The flowers are often used as a calming tea to alleviate anxiety and insomnia, and are also utilized in skincare products to soothe skin irritations and reduce inflammation.
The leaves, which contain a higher concentration of essential oils than the flowers, are sometimes used to make a herbal tea that can help with digestion and menstrual cramps, while the roots are used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea.
Additionally, the leaves and roots of Chamomilla recutita are sometimes used topically to treat wounds, reduce pain and swelling, and even as a natural insect repellent.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Chamomilla recutita and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Flowers | Insomnia, anxiety, digestive issues |
| Leaves | Skin irritations, muscle spasms, insect bites |
| Roots | Inflammatory conditions, cold symptoms, earaches |
Preparations
Chamomilla recutita most common herbal preparations are infusions, tinctures, and topical creams.
Infusions, often referred to as teas, are commonly used to calm digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, and to alleviate symptoms of menstrual cramps and anxiety.
Chamomilla recutita tinctures are employed to treat a range of health concerns including insomnia, toothaches, and skin irritations like eczema and acne.
Topical creams, on the other hand, are utilized to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, making them a popular choice for conditions like diaper rash and minor burns.
The herbal preparations of Chamomilla recutita are listed below.
- Chamomile tea (infusion): A calming herbal tea made by steeping the dried flowers of chamomilla recutita in hot water.
- Chamomile tincture: A concentrated liquid extract of chamomilla recutita flowers, often used in aromatherapy or as a natural remedy.
- Chamomile oil: An essential oil extracted from the flowers of chamomilla recutita, used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing properties.
- Chamomile salve: A topical cream or ointment made from the flowers of chamomilla recutita, often used to soothe skin irritations and wounds.
- Chamomile infused honey: A sweetener made by infusing chamomilla recutita flowers in honey, often used to promote relaxation and calmness.
- Chamomile capsules: Dried flowers of chamomilla recutita contained in gelatin capsules, often used as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.
- Chamomile suppositories: Rectal suppositories made from the flowers of chamomilla recutita, often used to soothe digestive issues and promote relaxation.
Side Effects
Chamomilla recutita side effects are diverse and can be experienced by individuals who consume it in large quantities or have sensitive skin.
Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and allergic reactions such as hives, itching, and swelling, particularly among those who are prone to allergies.
Pregnant women, children, and individuals with liver or kidney diseases are also more likely to experience side effects like stomach upset, diarrhea, and increased heart rate.
Precautions include taking the recommended dosage, avoiding consumption if you have a history of allergies, and using diluted chamomile tea or topical creams to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
The possible side effects of Chamomilla recutita are listed below.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to chamomile and experience symptoms such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness: Chamomile can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, especially when taken in large doses or combined with other medications.
- Digestive issues: Chamomile may cause stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea in some individuals, especially when taken in large amounts.
- Increased bleeding: Chamomile may increase the risk of bleeding in people taking anticoagulant medications or experiencing bleeding disorders.
- Interactions with medications: Chamomile may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and sedatives, leading to adverse effects.
- Skin irritation: Chamomile essential oil can cause skin irritation, including redness, itching, and rashes, especially when applied topically.
- Sleep disturbances: Chamomile can cause drowsiness and sleep disturbances, especially when taken in large doses or combined with other sedatives.